Tusker head coach Robert Matano and AFC Leopards head coach Patrick Aussems have engaged in a war of words following Tusker’s 0-0 draw with Gor Mahia in a crucial league encounter.
Matano, known as “the lion” in local football circles, took a cheeky jab at Aussems by stating that even Gor Mahia, a traditionally attacking team, resorted to playing long balls against Tusker.
“There are moments in football where you can be up and down, however, the most important thing is to establish consistency. We contained Gor Mahia to the extent they started playing long balls. Even Gor Mahia can play long balls. I thought it was only Tusker!” Matano cheekily lamented.
“ Coaches have been criticizing me about how we have been playing bad football but we actually played better against the Mzungu person so, you cannot kill a lion with stones but with an armed weapon!
Despite feeling aggrieved by a disallowed goal, Matano acknowledged that the match was balanced and described it as a fair game.
“We scored a goal which was undeservedly disallowed,” he said, “a cross from the right wing cannot be an offside position but it is what it is,” he added.
“We created some chances but did not fully capitalize on them. The game was balanced. We got some chances but did not bury them. I am happy we did not lose and we are still at the top, but we are going to fight till the very end.”
Meanwhile, Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry expressed surprise at Tusker’s defensive approach, as the Brewers have been known for playing a conservative style of football.
‘’We were just unlucky not to win the match. We created numerous chances but failed to convert, hence ended up sharing spoils with our opponents. We really needed the three points, just like Tusker, but unfortunately we ended up with a point. Simple mistakes cost us the win,” said McKinstry.
Tusker’s upcoming fixtures include matches against Wazito, Posta Rangers, and Vihiga Bullets.
Gor Mahia, on the other hand, will face Ulinzi Stars, Kakamega Homeboyz, and City Stars in their remaining matches. \
Both teams are determined to secure victories and make a final push for the league title.
